A method, system, and computer-readable medium for managing a work packet's life cycle, wherein the work packet is assembled in a software factory that creates custom software in a standardized manner, are presented. In one embodiment, the computer-implemented method comprises: defining a work packet to perform a sub-function of a custom software, wherein the work packet is a pre-stored, reusable, self-contained, discrete unit of software code; assembling the work packet; archiving the work packet in an asset repository; retrieving the work packet from the asset repository; and sending the work packet to an assembly line for consolidation with other work packets to create a custom software.